POONCH: Deputy Commissioner Poonch Vikas Kundal today chaired the meeting of the district-level committee under Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) to review and discuss the measures for curbing drug abuse and narcotic trade in the district. During the meeting, the chair was briefed on the steps taken to tackle the drug menace and the number of properties of the drug peddlers seized, besides other initiatives taken by the police department to curb drug trade in the District.

A range of issues related to the incidence of drug addiction, hot spots of drug abuse, measures being taken in the district etc were deliberated in detail. The Deputy Commissioner stressed to intensify the awareness campaigns to educate the public about the harms of drug menace. He asked for effective measures to make Panchayats Nasha Mukt  and suggested for conducting regular meetings of Panchayat Level Committees. "There is a need to motivate the civil society and religious members to come forward and contribute in the fight against drug abuse, " he added.

He directed the ARTO (Assistant Regional Transport Officer) to organize a special testing drive for the Drivers. The Drug Inspector and Tehsildars were directed to check CCTV cameras footage in the chemist shops of their jurisdiction and other associated locations to identify illegal activities, if any.

The Principals of Degree Colleges and Higher secondary schools were directed to organise awareness programmes, conduct drug screening tests and install CCTVs outside the institutions. The DC directed the enforcement agencies to take action under Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) against persons selling tobacco products in the 100-metre radius of educational institutions.

Stressing on the need of sustained and coordinated efforts from all stakeholders, DC said that District Administration has adopted a zero tolerance policy against menace of drugs in the district.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Tahir Mustafa Malik, DFO, CMO, CEO, ACR, SDM Surankote/Mendhar, PO ICDS, Principal Degree Colleges, Tehsildar Haveli/ Mandi/ Surankote/ Mendhar/ Balakote/ Mankote, Dy. SP CID,MS District Hospital, Drug inspector besides other concerned officers were present.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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